Simple Strategy: Brighten Hair Color

Melanie Kuchinski Rodriguez, 30, an administrative assistant in West Orange, New Jersey.

“Melanie’s hair was monochromatic and flavorless,” says Joel Warren, a colorist and a co-owner of the Warren-Tricomi salon in New York City. Because Melanie’s hair color was so drab, the rest of her face looked washed-out, especially when she didn’t wear makeup. Melanie had never colored her hair before, so Warren “wanted to change her color enough to give it a boost, but still make it look natural,” he says.

First Warren wove in some wheat-colored highlights. Then he painted in muted golden lowlights (panels of color a little darker than the natural shade). “The highlights and lowlights together add dimension and contrast to her hair,” he says. To protect Melanie’s hair color and make it last (blow-dryer heat and styling irons can turn highlights and lowlights brassy), Warren applied a strengthening cream to her damp hair before styling. “It closes the cuticles, so the color stays true,” he says.

On Melanie: Shu Uemura Strengthening Cream, $30, 866-914-8750 for locations.

Finishing Touches: “It didn’t take much more than a little eye makeup and lipstick to bring Melanie’s face to life once her hair color was richer,” says Gillian. He lined her top lash lines with black gel liner and applied a soft gray mauve eye shadow to her lids. He brushed a medium pink powder blush on her cheeks. On her lips, he applied a bright pink gloss and softened it by blending a nude pencil on top, creating a creamy rose shade.

Tip to Try: Even in colder months, the sun can sap color from hair. Apply a color-protectant spray before you head outside, or cover up with a cap. “Shielding your hair from the sun will keep your color looking as good as it did at the salon,” says Warren.

Melanie’s Reaction: “I feel less washed-out now that my hair has more depth,” says Melanie. “The next time I color my hair, I may go even more dramatic and try red.”